Shutdown Likely Extended Until Tuesday; Democrats Reject Funding Bill Support

The federal government is likely to remain shut down until at least Tuesday, as critical votes are set for a vital funding package. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries warned Republicans against counting on Democratic votes for support. Uncertainty surrounds House Speaker Mike Johnson’s ability to gather sufficient Republican backing for the Senate-approved bill that funds a majority of the government until the end of September.

Senate-Passed Bill Under Fire

The agreement, reached between Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and President Donald Trump, allocates funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for just two weeks. This temporary funding aims to facilitate extensive negotiations regarding federal immigration enforcement, which Democrats want to reform.

Procedural Challenges Ahead

Johnson faces significant hurdles as all Democrats plan to vote against the bill. He cannot afford to lose more than a handful of Republican votes. The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday at 4 p.m. ET to discuss the procedural rules necessary for the bill’s advancement.

• Critical House vote expected Tuesday.
• Funding for DHS only for two weeks.
• House Rules Committee meets Monday at 4 p.m. ET.

During a call on Saturday, Jeffries informed Johnson that Democrats would not agree to a fast-tracked approval process. Johnson aimed to expedite the bill through a method called “suspending the rules,” allowing passage with a two-thirds House majority.

Impact of the Government Shutdown

A partial government shutdown commenced after the funding deadline passed and the House was not in session until Monday to cast a final vote. Many Democrats have expressed concerns about even the temporary funding for DHS, indicating that the shutdown could last longer than anticipated.

• The House Democrats will conduct a caucus call at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday.
• Jeffries emphasized alignment between House and Senate Democrats on the need for DHS reform.

Among the discussed reforms are requirements for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to wear body cameras and the tightening of search and arrest warrant protocols. Jeffries stressed the need for ICE and DHS to adhere to standard law enforcement practices.

While certain agencies remain operational, concerns over the implications of a prolonged partial shutdown persist. Travelers may experience airport delays, federal employees could miss out on paychecks, and access to certain federal loans may be restricted. The situation remains fluid as leaders in Washington continue to navigate this complex political landscape.